U.S. Marine Squadrons
Part 1 of 6 – HMX – HMT – MALS
Part 2 of 6 – HMM
Part 3 of 6 – HMH
Part 4 of 6 – HMR – HML – HMLA – HMLAT – HMMT
Part 5 of 6 – VMM – HX / MX / VMX
Part 6 of 6 – VMMT – VMAT – VMFAT – VMGR – VMR – HMA / VMO – VMU
Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadrons
“Marine tiltrotor squadrons are new units operating the MV-22 Osprey with their main mission being assault support. The Osprey offers twice the speed, three times the payload, five times the range, and can fly more than twice as high as the helicopters it is replacing.[47] As the Marine Corps’ number one aviation acquisition priority, the Osprey is replacing the aging fleet of CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters and is a cornerstone of the capstone concept of Expeditionary maneuver warfare.[48] The Marine Corps is planning on transitioning two squadrons a year to the new airframe until all squadrons have made the conversion” (Ref. [39]; 47; 48 of List of active United States Marine Corps aircraft squadrons – Wikipedia & Navy web site).
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Navy – Home / Facebook
Public History Web Site
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VMM-161 / VMM-161
HMM-161 / HMM-161
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VMM-162 / VMM-162
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VMM-163 / VMM-163
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HMR/HMR(L)/HMR(C)/ HMM/VMM-161 /
HMR/HMR(L)/HMR(C)/ HMM/VMM-161
Greyhawks
The First";
"Pineapple Squadron"; "Phrog Phlyers"
Tail code:
HR 1951-56; YR 1956
Aircraft:
HRS (CH-19E); HOK (OH-43); OE-1(O-1B); HUS (UH-34D);
CH-46A/D/F/E; MV-22B
MAG-16, 3rd MAW
MCAS Miramar, CA
Comm. 15 Jan. 1951–
Present
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HMR/HMR(L)/
HMM-163/VMM-162 /
HMR/ HMR(L)/
HMM/VMM-162
HMM-163
Golden Eagles
"Doughboys"; "Wombats"
Tail code:
HS 1951-56; YS 1956-
Aircraft:
HRS-1, 2, 3(CH-19E); HUS-1 (UH-34D);
CH 46A/D/F/E; MV-22B
MAG-29, 2nd MAW
MCAS New River, NC
Comm. 30 June 1952 –
Present
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HMR/HMR(L)/
HMM/VMM-163 /
HMR/HMR(L)/
HMM/VMM-163
Ridge Runners
"Evil Eyes"
Tail code:
:HP 1951-56; YP 1956-
Aircraft:
HRS-1, 2, 3/CH-19; HUS-1 (UH-34D); CH-46A/D/F/E
MAG-16, 3rd MAW
MCAS Miramar, CA
Comm. Dec. 1951 –
Present
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HMM-165 / HMM-165
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HMM-166/VMM-166
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VMM-261 / VMM-261
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HMM-165
White Knights
Tail Code: YW 1965-
Aircraft: CH-46A/D/F/E
Vietnam
MCAS Miramar, California
Comm. 1 July 1965 –
Present
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HMM/VMM-166 /
HMM/VHM-166
HMM-166 /
HMM-166 Photos
SeaElk
The youngest CH-46
MAG-16/ 3rdM
Comm. in 1985
– Present
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HMR/ HMRL/
HMM/ VMM-26 /
HMR/ HMRL/
HMM/VMM-26 /
HMR/ HMRL/
HMM/VMM-261
Raging Bulls
"Echo Mike"; "Porter's Bulls" (Vietnam)
Motto:
"Sine Perspiro" (No Sweat)
Tail Code:
HM 1951-56; EM 1956-
Aircraft:
HRS-1,2,3 (CH-19E); HUS-1 (UH-34D);
CH-46A/D/F/E; MV-22B
MAG-26, 2nd MAW
MCAS New River, NC
Comm. 5 Apr. 1951 –
Present
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VMM-263 / VMM-263
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VMM-264 / VMM-264
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VMM-266 / VMM-266
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VMM-263
Thunder Chickens
"Blue Eagles"; Thunder Eagles"; "Eager Gophers"
Tail Code: IL 1952-56; EG 1956-2006
Aircraft: HRS-1(CH-19E); HOK (OH-43);
HUS-1(UH-34D);
CH-46A/D/F/E; MV-22B
MAG-29, 2nd MAW
MCAS New River, NC
Comm. 16 June 1952 –
Present
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HMR/HMR(L)/
HMM/VMM-264 /
HMR/HMR(L)/
HMM/VMM-264 /
HMR/HMR(L)/
HMM/VMM-264
Black Knights
Tail Code: EH 1959
Aircraft:
HUS (UH-34D); CH-46A/D/F/E
MAG-26, 2nd MAW
MCAS New River, NC
Comm. 30 June 1959 –
Present
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VMM-266
Fighting Griffins
Tale Code: ES 1983-
Aircraft:
CH-46D/F/E; MV-22B
MAG-26, 2nd MAW
MCAS New River, NC
Comm. 26 Apr. 1983
– Present
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HMH-363 / HMH-363 / HMH-363 / VMM-363 / VMM-363
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HMM-365 / VMM-365
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VMM-561 / VMM-561
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HMR/HMR(L)/ HMR(C) / HMH/VMM-363 /
HMR/HMR(L)/ HMR(C)/ HMH/HMH-363
Lucky Red Lions
Tail Code:
HZ 1952-56 YZ 1956-
Aircraft:
HRS (CH-19E); HOK (OH-43); HUS (UH-34D); CH-53A/D
MAG-16, 3rd MAW
MCAS Miramar, CA
MCAS Miramar
Comm. 2 June 1952 – Present
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HMM/VMM-365
HMM-365 / HMM-365
Blue Knights
Aircraft:
MV-22 Osprey
MAG-26, 2nd MAW
MCAS New River, NC
Comm. 1 July 1963 –
Present
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VMM-561
Pale Horse
Tailcode:
VX (1966-69); PH (2010- )
Aircraft:
UH-34D; MV-22B
MAG-16, 3rd MAW
MCAS Miramar, CA
Comm. 2 Dec. 2010 – Present
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VMM-562
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VMM-562
Never activated
1st MAW
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Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 (VMM-161) is a United States Marine Corps helicopter squadron consisting of MV-22 Osprey transport tiltrotors. The squadron, known as the "Greyhawks", is based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California and falls under the command of Marine Aircraft Group 16 (MAG-16) and the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW). The squadron has the distinction of being the first helicopter transport squadron in the World” (Ref. Kristy, "Museum Preserves 60 Years of Marine Corps Rotary Wing Aviation", Fortitudine, 2007). As of the end of the deployment, the squadron is at a record of over 58,000 class A mishap free flight hours total. This achievement is unable to be surpassed by any other CH-46E squadron due to the fact the new MV-22 Osprey will be replacing the CH-46E, and no other squadron has a record close enough to the Greyhawks' that they would be able to beat it. In December 2009, HMM-161 became the first of ten west coast squadrons to transition to the MV-22 Osprey and changed their name to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 during the change of command” (Ref. Fuentes, Gidget (Thursday December 17, 2009 16:49:50 EST) & "First West Coast-based Osprey arrives". Marine Corps Times. Retrieved 18 December 2009).
“Activated 15 January 1951 at El Toro, California, as Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron 161, Air, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. HMR- Deployed during August 1951 to Korea and attached to the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. VMM-161 has been a rotorcraft pioneer. Eight months after activating, the squadron deployed to Korea, operating from CVE escort carriers and from land bases. The first transport helicopter squadron in the armed forces, HMR-161 carried out several "firsts", including the first ship-to-shore movement of troops in combat, the first movement of an entire battalion by helicopter, and the first helicopter combat resupply mission. Participated in the war in Korea operating from East Central Front. In 1953, HMR-161 relocated to Hawaii, where it operated under the 1st Marine Brigade and MAG-13. Participated in the defense of the Korean Demilitarized Zone from July 1953 to March 1955. Relocated during March 1955 to Kaneohe Bay, Territory of Hawaii, and attached to Marine Aircraft Group 13. The squadron was redesignated HMR(L)-161 in 1956. In 1957 the Grayhawks became a composite-reconaissance helicopter squadron (HMR(C)-161), operating a mix of HRS and HOK-1 helicopters, along with OE-1 "Bird Dogs". HMR(C)-161 became a transport helicopter squadron again in 1958, and began operating the HUS-1/UH-34D "Sea Horse". Redesignated 31 December 1956 as Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron (Light) 161, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. In 1962 another redesignation took place with the squadron becoming a Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM-161). Redesignated 1 June 1958 as Marine Helicopter Squadron (Composite) 161 Attached 1 October 1958 to the 1st Marine Brigade. Attached 1 March 1959 to Marine Aircraft Group 13, 1st Marine Brigade.
Redesignated 1 July 1959 as Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron (Light) 161. Redesignated 1 February 1962 as Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 161, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 1st Marine Brigade. HMM-161 deployed to Vietnam in 1965 for the first of two tours of duty there. Before leaving Hawaii, the squadron aircraft had pineapples painted on their noses, giving rise to the squadron's nickname "Pineaplle Squadron". Deployed during May 1965 to Hue/Phu Bai, Republic of Vietnam, and attached to Marine Aircraft Group 16, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Relocated during January 1966 to Futenma, Okinawa. Redeployed during April 1966 to Da Nang, Republic of Vietnam. Redeployed during June 1966 to Phu Bai, Republic of Vietnam. Relocated during November 1966 to Futenma, Okinawa and attached to Marine Aircraft Group 15, 9th Marine Amphibious Brigade. Relocated during December 1966 to New River, North Carolina and attached to Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. Redeployed during May 1968 to Quang Tri, Republic of Vietnam, and attached to Provisional Marine Aircraft Group 39, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Redeployed during October 1969 to Phu Bai, Republic of Vietnam, and attached to Marine Aircraft Group 16, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. HMM-161 departed Vietnam at the end of 1966, relocating to New River, NC, where they traded in their UH-34Ds for CH-46Ds. HMM-161 returned to the war in Vietnam in 1968 and served there until 1970, when it relocated to Tustin. Redeployed during September 1970 to Santa Ana, California and attached to Marine Aircraft Group 56, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. Redeployed during September 1970 to Santa Ana, California and remained attached to Marine Aircraft Group 56, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. For the next two decades HMM-161 supported Marine forces on the West Coast and in Okinawa, participated in numerous deployments and training exercises, and assisted local authorities when needed. The squadron was activated on September 13, 1986 at Marine Corps Air Station Tustin, California and assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 16. Deployed during June 1986 aboard USS Tarawa to the Western Pacific as the Aviation Combat Element for the 13th Marine Amphibious Unit. Elements deployed to the Persian Gulf onboard USS Okinawa as part of Contingency Marine Air-Ground Task Force (CMAGTF) 1-88. Deployed during January 1989 aboard USS Belleau Wood to the Western Pacific as the Aviation Combat Element for the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU (SOC)). Elements participated during August 1989 in the cleanup of Prince William Sound, Alaska (Exxon Valdez) Oil Spill. HMM-161 returned to combat in 1990, serving throughout Operation Desert Shield/Storm. Deployed during April 1990 aboard USS New Orleans for Rim-Of-The- Pacific (RIMPAC)-90. Deployed on 17 August to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as part of Marine Aircraft Group 70, 7th Marine Expeditionary Brigade, in support of Operation Desert Shield. Participated in Operation Desert Storm in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Emirate of Kuwait. Deployed during May 1992 aboard USS Tarawa to the Western Pacific and Persian Gulf as the Aviation Combat Element for the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)). Deployed during October 1994 aboard USS Essex to the Western Pacific and Persian Gulf as the Aviation Combat Element for the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)). Participated in Operation United Shield, the withdrawal of United Nations forces from Somalia in 1995. Relocated during November 1995 to Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, California. Deployed during March 1997 aboard USS Boxer to the Western Pacific and Persian Gulf as the Aviation Combat Element for the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)). Relocated during 1999 to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California. Deployed during 2003 as Aviation Element for 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)). Participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/161.html ).
History
They relocated during 1995 to Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, California and again during 1999 to MCAS Miramar, California.
They participated in the following operations:
· 1990 - Operation Desert Shield
· 1991 - Operation Desert Storm
· 1994 - Operation Support Hope
· 1994 - Operation Restore Hope
· 1998 - Operation Southern Watch
· 2004 - Operation Iraqi Freedom
“In 2004, HMM-166 deployed as the aviation combat element of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. During this deployment they participated in the Battle of Najaf (2004)” (Ref. Facebook).
“HMM-161 deployed several times to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. 2009 saw the final deployment of the squadron as a helicopter squadron; HMM-161 returned home to begin transitioning to the MV-22B "Osprey". VMM-161 became the first West Coast VMM on 8 October 2009. HMM-166 was the youngest CH-46 helicopter squadron in the Marine Corps. The squadron was redesignated as a tiltrotor squadron on June 23, 2010” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/161.html )
Awards
· PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION STREAMER with two bronze stars - Korea – 1951; Vietnam - 1965 -1966 Iraq- 21 March-24 April 2003
· JOINT MERITORIOUS UNIT AWARD STREAMER - Somalia – 1995
· NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with three bronze stars - Korea - 1952 – 1953; Vietnam – 1965 & 1968 & Southwest Asia – 1990 – 1991
· MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 3 bronze stars - Vietnam - 1968 – 1969 and Persian Gulf - 1987 – 1988; May 2000-30 Apr 2001; 8 Oct 2000 - 1 Jan 2001
· NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE STREAMER with 3 bronze stars
· KOREAN SERVICE STREAMER with 1 silver star
· ARMED FORCES EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER - Somalia – 1995
· VIETNAM SERVICE STREAMER with 2 silver stars and 1 bronze star
· SOUTHWEST ASIA SERVICE STREAMER with 3 bronze stars
· GLOBAL WAR on TERRORISM EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· KOREAN PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION STREAMER
· VIETNAM CROSS of GALLANTRY with PALM STREAMER
· VIETNAM MERITORIOUS UNIT CITATION CIVIL ACTIONS STREAMER
HMR-161 HMR(L)-161
Proposed Disney design
  
HMR(C)-161 HMM-161
   
VMM-161 Subdued version Desert version
  
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Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162 (VMM-162) is a United States Marine Corps tiltrotor squadron consisting of MV-22 Osprey transport aircraft. The squadron, known as the "Golden Eagles", is based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina and falls under the command of Marine Aircraft Group 26 (MAG-26) and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW). HMM-162 officially stood down December 9, 2005 to begin the process of transitioning to the MV-22 Osprey. On August 31, 2006, the squadron was reactivated as the second operational Osprey squadron in the Marine Corps.
“VMM-162 was activated 30 June 1951 at Santa Ana, California, as Marine Helicopter Squadron 162 and assigned to Air, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific., as Helicopter Transport Squadron (HMR) 162. Reassigned during March 1952 to Marine Aircraft Group 16, Air, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. After initial forming and outfitting, HMR-162 deployed to Asaka, Japan with MAG-16 in 1953, and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 16, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Deployed during March 1954 to Oppama, Japan. Redesignated 31 December 1956 as Marine Helicopter Squadron (Light) 162. Relocated during February 1959 to New River, North Carolina, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. Deployed during April 1960 to Futenma, Okinawa, and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 16, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. During the next six years the squadron participated in several exercises and flew missions in support of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing and the 3d Marine Division. After redesignating to HMR(L)-162 in 1956, the squadron began rotations between Japan and New River. In 1960, MAG-16 relocated from Oppama, Japan, to the new base at Futenma, Okinawa. Relocated during July 1961 to New River, North Carolina, and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. This lasted until 1962. Reassigned 1 February 1962 as Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 162. During 1962 HMR(L)-162 became HMM-162. Deployed during June 1962 to Futenma, Okinawa and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 16, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, taking part in operations during the crisis in Laos (Jun-Jul 1962). Relocated during June 1963 to New River, North Carolina, and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. In 1963 (Jan-Jun) and 1964 (Jun-Oct). Deployed during May 1964 to Futenma, Okinawa, and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 16, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Redeployed during October 1964 to Futenma, Okinawa. HMM-162 deployed to Da Nang, South Vietnam, Republic of Vietnam as part of Operation SHUFLY. After the official outbreak of hostilities 162 returned to South Vietnam, operating there from March to May 1965. Participated in the war in Vietnam, January - June 1963, June - October 1964, and March - May 1965, operating from Da Nang - Nha Trang. Afloat onboard USS Princeton in the Eastern Pacific, October 1964 - March 1965. Redeployed during March 1965 to the Republic of Vietnam. Redeployed during May 1965 to Futenma, Okinawa. Relocated during June 1965 to New River, North Carolina, and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. After serving in Vietnam, HMM-162 returned to New River, which has been its home for nearly 45 years. Deployed at various times during the 1970s and 1980s to the Mediterranean, North Atlantic, Caribbean, and Indian Ocean areas. From the 1960s through the 1980s, HMM-162 participated in numerous training exercises, as well as deploying as the Aviation Combat Element for the Caribbean and 6th Fleet Landing Forces. Participated in deployment to the Indian Ocean, October - December 1980. Participated as part of the Multinational Peace-Keeping Force in Lebanon, May - November 1982. The Golden Eagles were deployed to Lebanon in 1982. During the next decade they participated on several operations including "Sharp Edge" in Liberia, "Provide Comfort" in Iraq, "Restore Hope" in Somalia, "Provide Promise" and "Deny Flight" in Bosnia, and finally, "Assured Response" in Liberia. Reassigned during January 1983 to Marine Aircraft Group 29. Participated in Operation Sharp Edge, Liberia, August 1990 - January 1991. Participated in support of Operation Provide Comfort, Iraq, July 1991. Participated in support of Operation Restore Hope, Somalia, November 1993. Participated in support of Operations Provide Promise and Deny Flight, Bosnia, January 1994. Participated in Operation Assured Response, Liberia, April - June 1996. Participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003). HMM-162 participated in the Liberaton of Iraq in 2003. This marked their last combat deployment with the CH-46. In 2005, the squadron entered cadre status in preparation for transition to the MV-22 "Osprey." HMM-162 placed in cadre status - October 2005. VMM-162 was stood up on 31 August 2006 at MCAS New River. Since then, the "Golden Eagles" have made a deployment to Iraq in support of operations there” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/162.html ).
Awards
· PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION STREAMER with one bronze star - Vietnam – 1965 & Iraq 2003
· NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with three bronze stars Vietnam - 1963 – 1964; Lebanon – 1983
· MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION with 3 bronze stars – 1974; 1979; 1986 – 1987 & 1998
· MARINE CORPS EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER with 3 bronze stars
· NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE STREAMER with 3 bronze stars
· KOREAN SERVICE STREAMER
· ARMED FORCES EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· VIETNAM SERVICE STREAMER with 2 bronze stars
· SOUTHWEST ASIA SERVICE STREAMER with 1 bronze star
· IRAQ CAMPAIGN STREAMER with 1 bronze star
· GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· VIETNAM CROSS of GALLANTRY with PALM STREAMER
HMR-162 HMR(L)-162 HMM-162
   
HMM-162
50th Anniverasary patch Variant VMM-162
 
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“HMM-163's 50+ years of distinguished service includes typhoon relief in Japan in the 1950s, combat in Vietnam, and participation in numerous training exercise and deployments. Most recently, HMM-163 was deployed to Afghanistan as the Combat Aviation Element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) in support of Operation "Enduring Freedom." Activated 1 December 1951 at Santa Ana, California, as Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron 163 and assigned to Air, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. Reassigned during March 1952 to Marine Aircraft Group 16. Deployed during August 1953 to Hanshin, Japan. Reassigned to 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Redeployed during May 1954 to Oppama, Japan. Redesignated 1 December 1956 as Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron (Light) 163. Relocated during May 1959 to Santa Ana, California. Reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing. Deployed during June 1960 to Futenma, Okinawa. Reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 16, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Relocated during August 1961 to Santa Ana, California. Reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing.
1962 - 1990
Redesignated 1 February 1962 as Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163. Deployed during July 1962 to Futenma, Okinawa and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 16, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Redeployed during August 1962 to Republic of Vietnam. Redeployed during January 1963 to Futenma, Okinawa. Relocated during September 1963 to Santa Ana, California. Reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing. Deployed during December 1964 to Futenma, Okinawa. Reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 16, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Redeployed during February 1965 to the Republic of Vietnam.
Participated in the War in Vietnam:
August 1962 - January 1963
February - October 1965
January - July 1966
October 1966 - August 1968
Operating from:
Soc Trang
Da Nang
Marble Mountain Air Facility
Hue/Phu Bai
Quang Tri
Temporarily located at Futenma, Okinawa:
October 1965 - January 1966
August - October 1966.
Participated at various times throughout the period as part of the Special Landing Force of the Seventh Fleet. Relocated during September 1968 to Santa Ana, California. Reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 56, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing. Reassigned during July 1971 to Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing. Marine Corps Air Station Santa Ana renamed during July 1978 as Marine Corps Air Station Tustin. Participated in the system of Unit Deployment between Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing and Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing during the 1970s and 1980s. Relocated to Marine Corps Air Station, Miramar, California. Participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom, 2003” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/163.html ).
Awards
· PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION STREAMER with 3 bronze stars Vietnam – 1965 – 1967; 1968 & Iraq – 2003
· NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 3 bronze stars Vietnam – 1962 – 1963; 1965 & 1968
· Southwest Asia – 1990 – 1991
· MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 1 silver and 1 bronze star – 1978 – 1980; 1981 – 1982; 1983 – 1985; 1987; 1987; 1988 – 1989 & 1994
· NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE STREAMER with 3 bronze stars
· KOREAN SERVICE STREAMER
· GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· VIETNAM SERVICE STREAMER with 1 silver and 3 bronze stars
· VIETNAM CROSS of GALLANTRY with PALM STREAMER
HMR-163 HMR(L)-163 HMM-163
    
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Marine Medium Tilt Rotor Squadron 165 (VMM-165) is a United States Marine Corps Tilt-rotor squadron consisting of MV-22B Osprey transport aircraft. The squadron, known as the "White Knights", is based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California and fall under the command of Marine Aircraft Group 16 (MAG-16) and the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW). In June 2010, the unit again sailed with the 15th MEU aboard USS Peleliu, marking the last deployment of its Marine Corps CH-53E Sea Stallion. They transitioned to the MV-22 Osprey on March 1, 2011 and were re-designated Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165 (VMM-165)” (Ref. http://www.rtbot.net/HMM-165 ).
“HMM-165 activated 1 July 1965 at Santa Ana, CA, as Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing. Reassigned during August 1965 to Marine Wing Service Group 37. HMM-165 was the second West Coast squadron to equip with the CH-46. Deployed during September - October 1966 to the Republic of Vietnam and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. The squadron made three combat deployments to Vietnam between 1966 and 1969, then relocated to Okinawa. Participated in the war in Vietnam, October 1966 - August 1969, operating from:
Ky Ha
Hue/Phu Bai
USS Valley Forge
USS Tripoli
Marble Mountain
Redeployed during August 1969 to Futenma, Okinawa, and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 15, 9th Marine Amphibious Brigade. Reassigned during December 1969 to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Participated in Philippine Flood Relief, July and August 1972. Participated as part of the Special Landing Force in support of the war in Vietnam, and with the 31st Marine Amphibious Unit, attached to the Seventh Fleet during the 1970s. From 1969 to 1973, the White Knights served as one of the two composite helicopter squadrons assigned to the Special Landing Force. HMM-165 deployed to the Philippines during July and August 1972 to provide humanitarian assistance after severe flooding hit that country. For this service, the White Knights were awarded the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation. In 1973 HMM-165 participated in Operation Clean Sweep, the sweeping of mines in North Vietnamese waters. During April 1975 HMM-165 participated in both Operation Eagle Pull (Phnomh Penh evacuation) and Operation Frequent Wind (evacuation of Saigon, Republic of Vietnam). A squadron CH-46 ("Lady Ace 09") brought out the US Ambassador, and a CH-53 from the squadron retrieved the last of the ground force. HMM-165 relocated during November 1977 to Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Brigade. While deployed with the 31st MAU, HMM-165 was sent to Lebanon to support of the Multinational Peace-Keeping Force, Lebanon, September to October 1983. During Operation Desert Shield/Storm HMM-165 was deployed to Kuwait with MAG-16. Participated in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Southwest Asia, August 1990 to March 1991. Element participated in Joint Task Force Full Accounting, Cambodia, September to October 1992 and March to April 1993. Participated in numerous training exercises during the 1980s and early 1990s. Reassigned during September 1994 to 1st Marine Aircraft Wing Aviation Support Element. Relocated 1996 to MCAS El Toro and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 16. Relocated during 1999 to MCAS Miramar, California. Redesignated 11 April 2011 as Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165 (VMM-165). After several years in Hawaii, the squadron was attached to MAG-16 and made the move from Tustin to El Toro, and finally, to Miramar. Since thaen HMM-165 has made numerous WestPac deployments, as well as combat tours in Iraq. In 2010, the "White Knights" deployed with the 15th MEU. during this tour they were diverted to Pakistan to assist in humanitarian efforts following severe flooding. This marked the final deployment for HMM-165. On their return home in December 2010, the White Knights began preparations to transition to the MV-22B "Osprey". The redesignation to VMM-165 took place on 11 April 2011” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/165.html ).
Awards
· PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION STREAMER with one bronze star Vietnam - 1966 – 1967 & 1968
· NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with four bronze stars Vietnam – 1968; 1969 & 1972 - Southwest Asia - 1990 – 1991
· MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 4 bronze stars Vietnam – 1973 & 1975 – Lebanon – 1983; 1989 – 1990 & 1999
· COAST GUARD MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION 1998 – 1999
· MARINE CORPS EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE STREAMER with 2 bronze stars
· ARMED FORCES EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· VIETNAM SERVICE STREAMER with 2 silver and 3 bronze stars
· SOUTHWEST ASIA SERVICE STREAMER with 2 bronze stars
· VIETNAM CROSS of GALLANTRY with PALM STREAMER
· PHILIPPINE PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION STREAMER
HMM-165
    
VMM-165
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Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 166 (VMM-166) is a United States Marine Corps tiltrotor squadron consisting of MV-22 Osprey transport aircraft. The squadron, known as the "SeaElk", is based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California. Activated in 1985, HMM-166 was the youngest CH-46 helicopter squadron in the Marine Corps. The squadron was redesignated as a tiltrotor squadron on June 23, 2010. “VMM-166 was activated as HMM-166 in 1985 and was the last CH-46 squadron to activate within MAG-16. Since its activation, VMM-166 has performed a variety of military missions including combat operations (Somalia), humanitarian operations (Somalia and Rwanda), and supporting UN forces in southern Iraq. On 23 June 2010, HMM-166 was redesignated VMM-166 and became the second West Coast "Osprey" squadron“ (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/166.html ).
Awards
· JOINT MERITORIOUS UNIT AWARD - Rwanda-Zaire 1994
· NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 1 bronze star Southwest Asia - 1990-1991 & 1994
· MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 1 bronze star - 1987 & 2000
· NATIONAL DEFENCE SERVICE STREAMER with 1 bronze star
· ARMED FORCES EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER with 1 bronze star
HMM-166 VMM-166
  
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Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261 (VMM-261) is a United States Marine Corps tiltrotor squadron consisting of MV-22 Osprey transport aircraft. The squadron, known as the "Raging Bulls", is based at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River, North Carolina and typically falls under the command of Marine Aircraft Group 26 (MAG-26) and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW).
“They are the fourth squadron in the Marine Corps to transition to the MV-22 Osprey. Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron (HMR) 261, the "Raging Bulls", was activated on 5 April, 1951 at MCAS Cherry Point, N.C. Throughout its history, the squadron has carried the tail code of "EM" on its aircraft. Reassigned June 1952 to Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. In 1954, the squadron moved from Cherry Point to MCAS New River. Two years later, it was redesignated Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron (Light) (HMR(L)) to reflect the acquisition of HUS helicopters to replace its HRS-1 helicopters. The squadron was, during this period, the first helicopter squadron to conduct troop lifts on the East coast. Redesignated 31 December 1956 as Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron (Light) 261.Relocated and reassigned January 1959 to Marine Aircraft Group 16, Iwakuni, Japan before returning to New River the next year. Relocated July 1959 to Futenma, Okinawa. Relocated and reassigned May 1960 to Marine Aircraft Group 26, New River, North Carolina. Relocated and reassigned June 1961 to Marine Aircraft Group 16, Futenma, Okinawa and received its designation as HMM 261. Redesignated 1 February 1962 as Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 261. Participated in expeditionary duty, Thailand, May - June 1962. Relocated July 1962, Marine Aircraft Group 26, New River, North Carolina. Relocated and reassigned June 1963 to Marine Aircraft Group 16, Da Nang, Republic of Vietnam. Afloat aboard USS Iwo Jima, October 1963 - April 1964, Western Pacific. Relocated April 1964 to Futenma, Okinawa. Relocated and reassigned June 1964 to Marine Aircraft Group 26, New River, North Carolina. Relocated and reassigned June 1965 to Marine Aircraft Group 16, Da Nang, Republic of Vietnam. Participated in the war in Vietnam, June 1963 - September 1963 and June 1965 to May 1966, operating from:
Da Nang
Marble Mountain
USS Valley Forge
Chu Lai
Relocated and reassigned June 1966 to Marine Aircraft Group 26, New River, North Carolina. Participated as part of the Multinational Peace-Keeping Force in Lebanon, August - October 1982 and October 1983 to February 1984. Participated in the landings on Grenada - Carriacou, October to November 1983. Participated in Operation Sharp Edge, May - September 1990, Liberia. Participated in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Southwest Asia, January to April 1991. Participated in Joint Task Force Operation Guardian Retrieval, Brazzaville, Congo, May 1997. Conducted Noncombatant Evacuation Operations in support of Joint Task Force Noble Obelisk, Freetown, Sierra Leone, May - June 1997” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/261.html ).
“February and March of 2008 proved to be busy months while squadron began post deployment leave and prepared the squadron spaces for its re-designation as VMM-261. On 11 April HMM-261 commanded by Lieutenant Colonel James G. Flynn was designated as VMM-261 under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Anthony J. Bianca” (Ref. http://www.marines.mil/unit/2ndMAW/mag26/vmm261/Pages/history.aspx).
Awards
· PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION STREAMER
· NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 1 silver and 1 bronze star
· MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 3 bronze stars MARINE CORPS EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE STREAMER with 3 bronze stars
· ARMED FORCES EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER with 1 bronze star
· GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· VIETNAM SERVICE STREAMER with 3 bronze stars
· SOUTHWEST ASIA SERVICE STREAMER with 3 bronze stars
HMM-261 has received the CNO Safety Award nine times and has been named "Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron of the Year" four times by the Marine Corps Aviation Association.
HMR-261 HMR(L)-261
   
HMM-261
  
Deployment Patches
  
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Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 263 (VMM-263) is a United States Marine Corps tiltrotor squadron consisting of MV-22B Osprey transport aircraft. The squadron, known as the "Thunder Chickens", is based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina and falls under the command of Marine Aircraft Group 29 (MAG-29) and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW)” (Ref. Facebook).
“Activated 16 June 1952 at Cherry Point, NC, as MARINE HELICOPTER TRANSPORT SQUADRON 263 (HMR-263). Redesignated 31 December 1956 as MARINE HELICOPTER TRANSPORT SQUADRON (LIGHT) 263 (HMR(L)-263).
Redesignated 1 June 1958 as MARINE HELICOPTER TRANSPORT SQUADRON (COMPOSITE) 263 (HMR(C)-263). Redesignated 29 February 1960 as MARINE HELICOPTER TRANSPORT SQUADRON (LIGHT) 263 (HMR(L)-263). Redesignated 1 February 1962 as MARINE MEDIUM HELICOPTER SQUADRON 263 (HMM-263). Redesignated 3 March 2006 as MARINE MEDIUM TILTROTOR SQUADRON 263 (VMM-263). VMM-263's long and distinguished service includes action in the Dominican Republic (1964), two tours in Vietnam (1965, 1971), the Gulf War (1990-91), and Somalia (1992-93). Aircraft from HMM-263 rescued USAF pilot Capt. Scott O'Grady, shot down over Kossovo in 1995. In 2003, HMM-263 was the Aviation Combat Element for the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable (MEU(SOC)) and participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003). HMM-263 went into cadre status on 3 June 2005 in order to begin training with VMX-22 on the MV-22 "Osprey". On 3 March 2006, VMM-263 stood up, formally becoming the first Marine Corps combat MV-22 squadron. The "Thunder Chickens" deployed to Iraq in October 2007 in support of Operaton Iraqi freedom” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/263.html ).
Awards
· PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION STREAMER with 2 bronze stars
· JOINT MERITORIOUS UNIT AWARD STREAMER
· NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 1 silver and 1 bronze star
· MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 4 bronze stars
· MARINE CORPS EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER with 2 bronze stars
· NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE STREAMER with two bronze stars
· ARMED FORCES EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· VIETNAM SERVICE STREAMER with 2 silver and 1 bronze stars
· SOUTHWEST ASIA SERVICE STREAMER with 2 bronze stars
· GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
HMR-263 HMR(L)-263 HMR(C)-263 HMM-263
 
VMM-263
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Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 264 (VMM-264) is a United States Marine Corps tiltrotor squadron consisting of MV-22 Osprey transport aircraft. The squadron, known as the "Black Knights", is based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina and normally falls under the command of Marine Aircraft Group 26 (MAG-26) and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW). They were the last east coast CH-46 Sea Knight squadron to transition to the Osprey.
“HMR-264 designation changed and was activated 30 June 1959 at New River, NC, as MARINE HELICOPTER TRANSPORT SQUADRON (LIGHT) 264 (HMR(L)-264. Redesignated 1 February 1962 as MARINE MEDIUM HELICOPTER SQUADRON 264 (HMM-264). HMM-264's service includes the Cuban Missile Crisis (1962), Dominican Republic (1964) and numerous deployments to the Mediterranean with the Sixth Fleet. During the Gulf War HMM-264 deployed as a composite squadron serving with 24th MEU (SOC). During 2003, HMM-264 deployed to Iraq as the Air Combat element of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/264.html ).
Awards - (partial list)
· PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION STREAMER with 2 bronze stars
· JOINT MERITORIOUS UNIT AWARD STREAMER
· NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 1 bronze star
· MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER
· ARMED FORCES EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE STREAMER with two bronze stars
HMR-264 HMR(L)-264 HMM-264
   
VMM-264
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Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 266 (VMM-266) is a United States Marine Corps tiltrotor squadron consisting of MV-22 Osprey transport aircraft. The squadron, known as the "Fighting Griffins", is based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina falls under the command of Marine Aircraft Group 26 (MAG-26) and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW).
“Activated 26 April 1983 at New River, NC, as MARINE MEDIUM HELICOPTER SQUADRON 266 (HMM-266). Redesignated 23 March 2007 as MARINE MEDIUM TILTROTOR SQUADRON 266 (VMM-266). The "Fighting Griffins" have served the country for nealry a quarter century. During that time they have participated in numerous exercises, and have deployed as the Air Combat Element of many Marine Amphibious/Expeditionary Units. During the first Gulf War HMM-266 deployed to Saudi Arabia and flew combat missions as a part of MAG-26. During the 1990s, the squadron participated in operations in Somalia, Haiti, and Kosovo. More recently, the "Fighting Griffins" have operated in Afghanistan and Iraq in support of ongoing Global War on Terror operations. On 15 June 2006, HMM-266 stood down and went into inactive status before beginning transition training for the MV-22B "Osprey". On 23 March 2007, the "Griifins" were reactivated and became the third combat squadron to field the MV-22 "Osprey". The squadron is now designated Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 266 (VMM-266)” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/266.html ).
Awards - (partial list)
· NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 1 bronze star
· MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION
· NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE STREAMER with 1 bronze star
· SOUTHWEST ASIA SERVICE STREAMER with 2 bronze stars
· KOSSOVO SERVICE STREAMER with one bronze star
· GLOBAL WAR on TERRORISM EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· GLOBAL WAR on TERRORISM SERVICE STREAMER
HMM-266 VMM-266
   
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Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363 (VMM-363), former HMH-363 is a United States Marine Corps helicopter squadron. HMH-363 was deactivated on 10 May 2012 at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay. The squadron was then re-designated MV-22 Osprey and activated as an MV-22B Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar as part of Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3d Marine Air Wing. HMH-363 flew the CH-53D Sea Stallion transport helicopters. The squadron, known as the "Lucky Red Lions", is based at Marine Corps Air Facility Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii and falls under the command of Marine Aircraft Group 24 (MAG-24) and the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing (1st MAW). The squadron provides assault support transport of combat troops, supplies and heavy equipment during expeditionary, joint or combined operations. Be prepared for short-notice, worldwide employment in support of Marine Air-Ground Task Force operations on land and aboard navy ship. Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363 the "Lucky Red Lions", was activated on June 2, 1952, at Marine Corps Air Station Santa Ana, California and was designated the Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron 363 (HMR-363), Marine Aircraft Group 36, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. It was activated as a result of the demands of the Korean War. Reassigned during January 1953 to Marine Aircraft Group 16, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. In the 1950s HMH-363 participated in Operation "Redwing" (Pacific Ocean Atomic tests), and was one of three squadrons to briefly be designated as "Reconaissance" squadrons. The "Red Lions" fly the CH-53D at Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Reassigned during July 1953 to Marine Aircraft Group 36, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. In 1953, the unit flew the Sikorsky HRS-1 and during this period took part in Operation Desert Rock, the first atomic test to use ground troops. Soon thereafter, the squadron became the first West Coast helicopter unit to receive the Sikorsky H-34 helicopter. Reassigned during September 1955 to the 3d Marine Aircarft Wing, Air, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. Redesignated 31 December 1956 as Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron (Light) 363. Redesignated 30 June 1958 as Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron (Composite) 363. Reverted to HMR(L) designation 29 February 1960. Redesignated 1 February 1962 as Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 363. In December 1964, a disastrous flood struck Northern California, and on Christmas Eve, HMM-363 deployed aboard the USS Bennington and rushed northward to the disaster area. The squadron was deployed to Vietnam in August 1965. On September 1, 1965, HMM-363 and engaged in their first combat missions ever. The squadron’s initial troop insert was a combined operation with HMM-161 in moving the 3rd Battalion 3rd Marines into a landing zone south of Da Nang. Close ties between HMM-363 and Republic of Korea (ROK) forces were developed in Operation FLYING TIGER. The Tiger Division was airlifted to Hill 78 in conjunction with the operation, which was viewed as the most successful Korean offensive of the war to date.The squadron was also involved with numerous operations, which increased in intensity following the Tet Offensive in early 1968. March 26, 1968 was perhaps the most disastrous day in the history of HMM-363. During a rocket attack, five squadron members were wounded and required medical evacuation. During the flight up the coast of Vietnam, the medevac aircraft lost its engine and crashed killing seven people including the commanding officer. The only survivors were the pilot and co-pilot who managed to escape before the aircraft sank in the coastal waters. On January 23, 1969, the squadron was redeployed back to California and was designated "Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363" (HMH-363) after having received the Sikorsky CH-53A transport helicopter. It served two combat tours in Vietnam, with the UH-34D (1965-66) and the CH-53A (1967-69). In October 1972, the squadron was the first unit to receive the powerful CH-53D. In March 1977, the squadron was selected to participate in the operational evaluation of the USS Tarawa (LHA-1), the first of the new large and modern amphibious ships. In early 1983, the squadron was awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation. The Squadron provided relief efforts and humanitarian support in the Philippines following a devastating earthquake and flood in 1990. HMH-363 flew countless missions and over 500 flight hours in 3½ weeks, delivering food, clothing, and shelter to inhabitants living in remote areas of the Philippines. The squadron received the Humanitarian Service Medal for its relief effort. During Desert Shield/Desert Storm, HMH-363 supported the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing in Okinawa and returned to California in May 1991, terminating its unit rotations to Okinawa after this eleven month deployment. In December 1992, the squadron participated in Operation Restore Hope in Somalia[1] and was awarded the Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation and Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. The squadron has also supported Joint Task Force Six at Fort Bliss, Texas. During August 1996, the Red Lions relocated to Marine Corps Air Facility Kaneohe Bay and were reassigned to 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. From late 2006 to early 2007, HMH-363 deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Based at Al Asad, this was the unit's first deployment in support of the Global War on Terror[2][3] During Operation Iraqi Freedom HMH-363 flew 848.8 hours in one month. The squadron deployed again to Al Asad in Summer 2008 to support Operation Iraqi Freedom. They returned to MCB Hawaii in February 2009. VMM-363 was activated as an MV-22B Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar as part of Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3d Marine Air Wing” (Ref. Simmons (2003), p.320;. Marine Corps News. U.S. Marine Corps and "HMH-363 assumes role of assault support in Iraq". Marine Corps News. U.S. Marine Corps of http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMH-363 & http://hma1369.tripod.com/363.html ).
Awards
· PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION STREAMER - Vietnam - 1965 - 1967
· JOINT MERITORIOUS UNIT AWARD STREAMER - Somalia - 1993
· NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 1 bronze star Vietnam - 1965 - 1966; 1968
· MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 3 bronze stars Vietnam - 1968; 1981; 1985 - 1986 & 1996 - 1998
· NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE STREAMER with 3 bronze stars
· VIETNAM SERVICE STREAMER with 1 silver and 3 bronze stars
· VIETNAM CROSS of GALLANTRY with PALM STREAMER
HMR-363 HMR(L)-363 HMR(C)-363
Nuclear Tests
HMM-363
  
HMH-363
   
VMM-363
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“Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (VMM-365) is a United States Marine Corps tiltrotor squadron consisting of MV-22 Osprey transport aircraft. The squadron, known as the "Blue Knights", is based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina and falls under the command of Marine Aircraft Group 26 (MAG-26) and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW). VMM-365 was activated July 1, 1963 as Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 365 (HMM-365) at Marine Corps Air Facility Santa Ana, California and assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific.. Flying UH-34Ds, the squadron’s mission was to provide assault transport of troops and cargo in support of Fleet Marine Forces during ship-to-shore movements. HMM-365 was reassigned to Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa in August 1964 in preparation for the squadron’s deployment to the Republic of Vietnam. The squadron arrived in Da Nang on October 7, 1964 and immediately began performing re-supply missions in support of Operation Shufly. Deployed during August - October 1964 to Da Nang, Republic of Vietnam, and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 16, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. Participated in the war in Vietnam, October 1964 - August 1965, operating from:
Da Nang
USS Princeton
Relocated during August - September 1965 to New River, North Carolina, and reassigned to Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing, Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic. From 1964-65, HMM-365 formed the aviation element of Operation SHUFLY. During this period, the squadron operated UH-34Ds, outfitted with the TK-1 experimental armament kit, as gunships. After serving in Vietnam (1964-65), the squadron relocated to New River and began operations in support Marine units on the East Coast. Deployed at various times to the Mediterranean and Caribbean during September 1966 - March 1971. HMM-365 was deactivated 1 March 1971. Reactivated 5 June 1980 at New River, North Carolina, as Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 365 and assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing, Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic. Reassigned during May 1983 to Marine Aircraft Group 29. Deployed at various times during the 1980s to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and North Atlantic areas. Participated in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Southwest Asia, September 1990 - February 1991. Participated in Operation Eastern Exit, Somalia, January 1991. During 1997 participated in Operation Silver Wake (non-combattant evacuation operation) in Albania. During 1999, HMM-365 participated in Operations in Kossovo:
Operation Allied Force
Operation Noble Anvil
Operation Joint Guardian
Operation Shining Hope (Albanian Humanitarian Relief)
Operation Avid Response (Turkish Earthquake relief)
During 2000, elements attached to HML/A-269 for SPMAGTF Vieques participated in Operation Eastern Access. During 2001-2002, HMM-365 deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and in 2003 participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom. HMM-365 served as Aviation Combat Element (ACE) for the 24th MEU and was deployed to Afghanistan. HMM-365 redesignated 15 Jan 2009 as VMM-365. The squadron was redesignated as Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (VMM-365) January 15, 2009 after completing their conversion to the MV-22 Osprey. VMM-365 is the fifth squadron aboard MCAS New River to switch to the Osprey” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/365.html & Blue Knights’ take on new mission with new CO).
Awards
· PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION STREAMER with one bronze star – Vietnam - 1965 & Iraq - 2003
· NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 3 bronze stars Vietnam – 1964; Southwest Asia - 1990 - 1991; Somalia - 1991& 1999
· MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION STREAMER with 1 silver and 2 bronze stars – 1970; 1970; 1982 - 1983; 1992; 1994 - 1995; 199; 1998 & 1999
· NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE STREAMER with 3 bronze stars
· VIETNAM SERVICE STREAMER with two bronze stars
· SOUTHWEST ASIA SERVICE STREAMER with two bronze stars
· KOSSOVO SERVICE STREAMER with two bronze stars
· GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM EXPEDITIONARY STREAMER
· VIETNAM CROSS of GALLANTRY with PALM STREAMER
HMM-365 VMM-365
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Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 561 (VMM-561) is a medium-lift squadron of the United States Marine Corps flying the Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey. Known as the "Pale Horse", it is part of Marine Aircraft Group 16 and based out of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in California. They are scheduled to move to Okinawa in 2012...[1]
“Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 561 was activated 31 January 1967 and was assigned to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 561 (MAG-56), Marine Aircraft Group 56, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW), FMF. It's assigned mission was to provide refresher training to Marines who would be joining UH-34D squadrons in Vietnam. It also was called on to conduct local Search and Rescue missions, provide VIP transport, and other commitments as required by local commands. Due to a lack of personnel and aircraft to man the squadron, HMM-561 remained in cadre status until formally activated 8 May 1967. At this time there were 62 Officers and 242 Enlisted assigned to the squadron. 24 UH-34Ds were also assigned at this time. In January 1969, WestPac requirements for UH-34s were curtailed as the UH-34D began to be phased out and replaced by the CH-46. Squadron strength dropped to 26 Officers, 287 Enlisted, and 12 aircraft. HMM-561 conducted a 12-aircraft flyby of El Toro and Santa Ana on 14 October 1969. On 27 October 1969, HMM-561, the last operational UH-34D squadron in the Fleet Marine Force, was deactivated. The squadron previously served as a training unit during the Vietnam War but was deactivated with the retirement of the HUSS from active service. On 2 December 2010, VMM-561 was re-activated, becoming the third West Coast MV-22 squadron. According to the 2010 Marine Corps Aviation Plan, VMM-561 will initially be assigned to MAG-16, then relocate, probably to Okinawa, in 2013/14, although according to squadron personnel, "Pale Horse" may be relocating to Hawaii instead Reactivated 2 December 2011 as Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 561 (VMM-562), Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, FMF. VMM-561 will deactivate (FY 2012)” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/561.html ).
Awards
National Defense Service streamer with one bronze star
HMM-561 VMM-561
 
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“Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 562 (VMM-562) was the second of two planned UH-34D training squadrons scheduled for activation during 1967. Due to a lack of aircraft and personnel, the squadron remained in a permanent "deferred activation" status, and never stood up. In the Marine Corps' FY2010 Aviation Plan (Oct 2009), A new MV-22B "Osprey" squadron, to be designated Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 562 (VMM-562), was to activate in 2012. Initial plans called for the squadron to be based at MCAS Miramar until 2013, then move to 1st MAW. With the release of the 2010 Force Structure Review, it appears that the planned activation has been cancelled” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/562.html ).
Never activated
VMM-562
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References include List of active United States Marine Corps aircraft squadrons at Wikipedia; others and navy web sites all linked herto.
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Marine Tiltrotor Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron
“The squadron is a joint Marine Corps and Air Force test and development unit. Its mission is to conduct operational testing and evaluation of the MV/CV-22 Osprey and future tiltrotor systems” (Ref. [61] & [62] of List of active United States Marine Corps aircraft squadrons – Wikipedia & Navy web site).
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HX / MX / VMX-22
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VMX-22 puts M-240 to test on 'Osprey'
Argonauts
Aircraft: MV-22B
Operational Test and Evaluation Force
MCAS New River, NC
Comm. 28 Aug. 2003 –
Present
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Marine Tiltrotor Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron Twenty-Two (VMX-22) is a United States Marine Corps tiltrotor squadron consisting of MV-22 Osprey transport aircraft. The squadron, known as the "Argonauts", is based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina. VMX-22 stood up in August 2003 and reports to the Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force (COMOPTEVFOR), who in turn reports test data and results to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Director, Operational Test and Evaluation.
“VMX-22 was activated 28 August 2003 at New River, North Carolina, and is a joint USMC/USAF Operational Test and Development Squadron, under operational command of Commander, Operational Test Force. The squadron's mission is to conduct operational testing and evaluation of all current and future tilt rotor aircraft, including the MV/CV-22. The "Argonauts" are slated to assume the OT&E role for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and the CH-53K. Home base for the squadron is MCAS New River, North Carolina, but plans call for the squadron to relocate to MCAS Yuma in 2015” (Ref. http://hma1369.tripod.com/vmx22.html ).
Awards
Navy Unit Commendation streamer
Meritorious Unit Commendation streamer
National Defense Service streamer
VMX-22
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References include List of active United States Marine Corps aircraft squadrons at Wikipedia; others and navy web sites all linked hereto.
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